Our story
Built on a Deep
Understanding
of
Maltese Buildings
Econova was born from a simple frustration: too many Maltese properties were being treated with the wrong materials. We set out to change that — one breathable system at a time.
Why We Started Econova
Malta’s buildings are unique. Centuries of Globigerina limestone construction, combined with a humid Mediterranean climate and the increasing use of modern cement renders, have created a perfect storm of humidity, salt damage and condensation problems.
When founder Marco Vella began his career in building renovation, he quickly realised that the standard solutions — cement renders, vapour barriers, chemical damp-proof courses — were making things worse. These materials trap moisture, accelerate salt crystallisation and cause the very damage they claim to prevent.
After training with RÖFIX in Austria and studying breathable building science across Europe, Marco returned to Malta with a clear mission: to introduce system-based, breathable renovation solutions specifically designed for Maltese substrates and climate conditions.
Today, Econova is Malta’s leading specialist in humidity and breathable renovation — trusted by homeowners, architects, conservation officers and property developers across the islands.
How We Work
Four principles that guide every project we take on.
Diagnose First
We never guess. Every engagement starts with a thorough moisture survey and root-cause analysis.
Breathability Over Barriers
We believe buildings must breathe. We reject vapour-barrier thinking in favour of vapour-open systems.
Respect for Heritage
Malta's limestone buildings deserve materials that work with them, not against them. We only specify compatible systems.
Long-Term Relationships
We follow up. We check in. We want to know our solutions are still performing years after installation.
Our Journey
From a single damp survey to Malta’s most trusted breathable renovation specialist.
2011
Econova founded in Valletta, Malta, focusing on damp diagnosis and lime plaster remediation.
2016
Partnered with Arreghini Italy to introduce breathable mineral paint systems to the Maltese market.
2022
Introduced Renopor internal insulation systems, completing a full breathable renovation offering.
2014
Became the first RÖFIX-certified applicator in Malta, expanding into full lime plaster system specification.
2019
Launched Ambientika HRV ventilation installations — addressing condensation at source in modern apartments.
2025
Over 200 properties treated across Malta and Gozo. Expanded team and opened new diagnostic centre.
The Team Behind Econova
Specialists in breathable building science, trained across Europe and rooted in Malta.
Founder & Lead Consultant
Paul Cardona
Careful removal of plastic coatings from limestone, followed by a lime plaster system and breathable mineral paint to allow walls to dry and salts to migrate safely.
Technical Specification Lead
Valeriia Cardona
Specialist in breathable paint systems and lime plaster specification. Chiara works closely with architects and conservation officers on heritage projects across Malta and Gozo.
Certifications & Credentials
Conservation-Grade Expertise
Our credentials aren’t just certificates on a wall — they represent years of specialist training and real-world application on Maltese buildings.
RÖFIX Certified Applicator
Trained and certified by RÖFIX Austria for lime plaster systems, ensuring correct specification and application on Maltese substrates.
Heritage Malta Compatible
All systems are selected for compatibility with scheduled and heritage properties, meeting the requirements of the Malta Environment & Planning Authority.
Ambientika Ventilation Partner
Authorised installer of Ambientika single-room HRV units — the gold standard for breathable, low-energy ventilation in Mediterranean climates.
Arreghini Approved Applicator
Certified to specify and apply the full Arreghini breathable paint range, including anti-condensation and anti-mould formulations.
Diagnostic-First Methodology
Every project begins with a thorough on-site moisture survey and diagnosis — we never prescribe solutions without understanding the root cause.
Renopor Insulation Specialist
Trained in the application of Renopor perlite insulation boards — the breathable, vapour-open alternative to conventional rigid insulation.
Our Trusted System Partners
Ready to Work With Us?
Book an onsite consultation and let our team diagnose your property’s humidity challenges — and design a system that solves them permanently.